"I hope this year Boro can keep up the good form and at least make the play-offs to give the fans something to shout for."

Boateng's leadership skills on the pitch made him the obvious candidate to replace Gareth Southgate as skipper in 2006 and the former midfield general is now boss of Malaysian Super League side Kelantan FA.

George Boateng (Image: Action Images)

He still keeps a close eye on the fortunes of his former clubs and believes Boro are well-equipped for a punt at promotion this season.

But the 39-year-old insists Boro's first target should be to ensure a top-six finish.

"Middlesbrough definitely have the facilities and a top manager, plus they've got some great players like Grant Leadbitter and Albert Adomah who could do well for the club.

"Even if you get to the play-off final and don't win it, it's about the experience and building on that for the future.

"I think the aim for this season should be to at least finish in the play-offs because twice now in recent years Boro have missed out after being very close.

"In the play-offs it's not about the best players, it's about the best team who can hold their nerve."